Dental Crowns - General Cosmetic Dentistry Information
Restorative dentistry can return your diseased or damaged teeth to a healthier and more attractive state
. There are many procedures available to suit every need. Dental crowns are one such procedure. Crowns have retained their popularity through the years due to their versatility and the great results they bring.
There are many types of crowns to choose from. In the past, gold or silver crowns were popular. Today, there is more of a demand for natural-looking crowns. Ceramic dental crowns are translucent, and their surface reflects the light like natural tooth enamel. Ceramic crowns are often used on front teeth, while more opaque porcelain crowns are a good choice for back teeth.
Dental crowns can correct problems that porcelain veneers cannot. For example, veneers are applied to healthy teeth to give them a brighter and more uniform appearance. They are not a good choice for damaged or decaying teeth.
Crowns fit over the entire tooth, offering protection as well as a better appearance. They are often placed over teeth which have been filed down following trauma or root canals. Ceramic or porcelain crowns can also replace existing metal crowns, or crowns which have become damaged or ill-fitting over time.
The placement of dental crowns is typically a two-step procedure. During the first visit, the dentist takes an impression of the patients teeth. Then a temporary crown is fitted while the impression is sent away to a lab. After several weeks, the lab returns a customized crown based on the dental impression. This permanent crown is fitted during the second visit.
Sometimes crowns are used in conjunction with other restorative procedures such as bridges and dental implants. Extra procedures can add to the cost and time requirement of crown placement. Talk to your dentist to find out which restorative dental procedures are right for you.